herbs

Though most of us may not be aware of it, we are the beneficiaries of a long history of experimentation by healers and herbalists in different societies who have carefully selected and prepared specific parts of plants to maximize their desired curative properties.

For many of us, getting comfortable is often the subject of daydreams or relegated to weekends or vacations. Common signs of discomfort, such as stiffness, insomnia, depression, chronic pains, and early signs of aging, are ways our bodies communicate the need for action to support our health and wellness.

Are you comfortable? If not, your body may be trying to tell you something.

Part of truly appreciating our human experience is enjoying the sweetness of life—a perfectly ripe peach, a fresh slice of homemade bread, or a scoop of chocolate ice cream. However, at a time when we have access to the world’s rich variety of sweet delicacies more than ever before, the number of people with difficulties metabolizing sugar in their bloodstream soars.

Heat oil, butter in skillet over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 3 minutes. Raise heat to high and sauté for 2 additional minutes. When liquid has almost evaporated, add shallots and sauté for 1 to 2 more minutes. Add parsley and tarragon or chives. Season to taste.

There’s nothing like cultivating your own culinary herbs to make you feel like a great cook. Maybe it’s the pride associated with growing your own ingredients or the way fresh herbs give recipes such a clean punch of flavor.

Women use herbs as they progress through cycles of life in every corner of the globe. Plants nourish, heal, protect, lift spirits, give solace, strengthen, provide joy, offer hope, and provide every conceivable system of support to both the “selves” and “cells” of women everywhere.

• Cloves (Eugenia aromatica of the family Myrtacae) can be used to alleviate nausea and dizziness when prepared as a tea. Two to five grains* is an appropriate dose for an adult. In tea, cloves generally have a pleasant taste. To brew, pour a cup of boiling water over a teaspoon of dried clove powder.

There’s nothing quite as refreshing as a cold beverage after a day in the hot summer sun—but drop in an herbal ice cube or two, and you’ve found the perfect way to make your favorite summer drinks even more enjoyable.

Many people anticipate summer’s abundance of fresh fruit and vegetables. Some of us, on the other hand, look forward to the fresh herbs. Grown in a patio tub outside your door, they are interesting to look at, provide wonderful fragrance, and are always at hand to offer a special zip to whatever you have cooking.